Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of heavy cream?

Cashew cream, Milk + butter (3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup melted butter) and Coconut cream (chilled) are the easiest swaps. Below: 8 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Cashew cream. Use the same amount. Soak 1 cup cashews 4h, blend with 1/2 cup water.

Adjust: Blend at least 2 min for smoothness.

Cashew cream
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Soak 1 cup cashews 4h, blend with 1/2 cup water.

Flavor
Mild, nutty.

Texture
Very creamy, thick.

Moisture
Can thin with water to target consistency.

Adjust
Blend at least 2 min for smoothness.

Best for
Sauces, Soups, Desserts

vegan · dairy free
Milk + butter (3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup melted butter)
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Reconstructs the fat content. Won't whip.

Flavor
Same as dairy.

Texture
Same richness as heavy cream.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Use immediately — fat separates when cooled.

Best for
Cooking, Baking, Sauces
Coconut cream (chilled)
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Chill full-fat coconut milk, scoop thickcream from top.

Flavor
Coconut.

Texture
Whips well when cold.

Moisture
Fat content similar.

Adjust
Chill 24h before. Avoid shaking can.

Best for
Whipped cream, Curries, Ice cream

vegan · dairy free
Evaporated milk
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Less fat (vs 36% for heavy cream). Won't whip.

Flavor
Caramelized from canning.

Texture
Slightly thinner.

Moisture
Higher water — reduce liquid 2 tbsp per cup.

Adjust
Simmer to reduce if thicker consistency needed.

Best for
Soups, Sauces, Custards
Half-and-half
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Half milk, half cream. Lighter.

Flavor
Lighter dairy.

Texture
Thinner.

Moisture
More water.

Adjust
Can reduce by simmering to thicken.

Best for
Coffee, Sauces, Soups
Silken tofu (blended)
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Vegan. Neutral. Blends smooth at high speed.

Flavor
Neutral.

Texture
Smooth, creamy. Thicker than cream.

Moisture
High — reduce liquid slightly.

Adjust
Add oil 1 tbsp per cup for richness if needed.

Best for
Creamy soups, Cheesecake, Dips

vegan · dairy free
Full-fat coconut milk
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Rich, thick. Subtle coconut.

Flavor
Coconut undertone.

Texture
Creamy, similar to dairy cream.

Moisture
Similar.

Adjust
Shake can well. Use only solid part for whipping.

Best for
Curries, Ice cream, Custards

vegan · dairy free
Greek yogurt + milk (2:1)
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Thin plain yogurt with milk to cream consistency.

Flavor
Tangy.

Texture
Tart, thick but pourable.

Moisture
Similar when thinned.

Adjust
Use full-fat yogurt. Whisk until smooth.

Best for
Sauces, Dressings, Marinades

Common questions

What is the best substitute for heavy cream?

Cashew cream is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Soak 1 cup cashews 4h, blend with 1/2 cup water.

What is a vegan substitute for heavy cream?

Good vegan options are Cashew cream, Coconut cream (chilled), Silken tofu (blended) and Full-fat coconut milk.

What is a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream?

Good dairy-free options are Cashew cream, Coconut cream (chilled), Silken tofu (blended) and Full-fat coconut milk.

How much should I use instead of heavy cream?

It depends on the swap. Cashew cream: Use the same amount. Milk + butter (3/4 cup milk + 1/4 cup melted butter): Use the same amount. Coconut cream (chilled): Use the same amount.